From Lagos Island to global impact: The 50-year journey of Yemisi Wole-Akinleye

At 50, Pastor Yemisi Wole-Akinleye stands as a radiant emblem of divine help, seasoned grace, and purposeful living. Her story is not one of sudden success or overnight visibility. It is a slow, consistent unfolding of a life yielded to God — formed in the crucible of discipline, family love, and unshakable faith.

From the heart of Lagos Island to international platforms of impact, her journey is a masterclass in what it means to be graced for every season.

Humble beginnings, deep foundations

Born at Lagos Island Maternity Hospital and raised in Ijeshatedo, Surulere, Yemisi’s formative years were shaped by the warmth and structure of a Catholic home. She grew up in a blended family that overflowed with love, laughter, and a celebratory spirit. “There was always something to celebrate,” she recalled. “We were happy people.”

Church wasn’t just a Sunday ritual — it was a way of life. The discipline of catechism classes, the prayers of the rosary, and the rhythm of worship rooted her in faith early. The spiritual structure of her home and the values of the Catholic tradition became the solid foundation for a life that would one day touch thousands.

Shaped by people, driven by vision

Her father — a man she still describes with deep admiration — was a major influence. Intentional about her growth and faith, he instilled in her the confidence to dream beyond the ordinary. Her siblings, especially those known for their flair and fashion, added texture and vibrancy to her personality. From her family, she inherited faith, style, and strength.

As a young girl, Yemisi was drawn to diplomacy, languages, and the media. She mimicked newscasters, practised diction, and developed strong articulation skills that would eventually serve her on the pulpit and in her professional life. Even then, her heart was stirred by a desire to shape minds and influence destinies.

At just seven years old, she began serving in church. Through this early exposure to structure and leadership, she learned responsibility, teamwork, and the dynamics of spiritual authority. These lessons would later become essential in her leadership roles.

A journey of purpose, one season at a time

Yemisi’s life is a tapestry of evolving roles — all unified by one constant: grace. She has worn many hats over the past five decades — wife, mother, health professional, pastor, mentor, humanitarian, and speaker. Each phase came with its own trials and triumphs, but her response remained the same: surrender to God’s leading.

While she had always sensed the call to ministry, it wasn’t until she joined Christ Miracle Church Mission (CMCM) that she formally embraced the pastoral office. “I didn’t want a title,” she said. “Titles can box you in. I just wanted to serve.” But divine timing and obedience brought her into a season of official spiritual leadership — one that she now carries with grace and conviction.

She is also the visionary behind Hour of Victory (Wakati Isegun), a prophetic weekly prayer programme birthed from a divine revelation. Initially reluctant to launch the programme due to its demands, she received support and encouragement from her family and spiritual parents. With their faith and God’s leading, she stepped out. Today, Wakati Isegun has become a global spiritual movement impacting lives across borders.

Global voice, local roots

Despite her global influence, Yemisi remains grounded in her roots. She attributes her balance to God’s help and the consistent support of those around her. Her ability to move seamlessly between the pulpit and professional spaces is a reflection of both preparation and divine enablement.

As she counts down to her 50th birthday, she isn’t fixated on titles or applause. Instead, she’s focused on legacy — on being a vessel God can trust to touch generations. “I am a product of tremendous help — both divine and human,” she said. “And I’m just getting started.”

A Life that still points to grace

From Lagos Island to the nations, from childhood dreams to divine assignments, Pastor Yemisi Wole-Akinleye’s journey is proof that with God, grace is not just a covering—it is a calling. And when grace meets purpose, the result is a life that shines, impacts, and endures.